Primary and secondary prevention of cancer in children and adolescents: current status and issues

Within the United States, cancer is the second leading cause of death by disease among adults and children alike. Although cancer has been characterized as primarily a disease of aging, there is growing awareness that many of the cancer risk factors have their origins earlier in life. In keeping with the current trend of pediatricians assuming the primary care responsibility of adolescents and young adults, this article reviews the current status of primary and secondary cancer prevention as it relates to pediatric practice.